Saturday, June 17, 2017

Chuck (2017), by Chuck Berry

After
gracing Earth with his presence for 90 years, the father of
rock-and-roll has left us mere mortals behind, but not without
bequeathing to us his final, posthumously-released gift.

And
what a gift it is!

Chuck
is Chuck's first new studio album since 1979's Rock It! (and
obviously now his last one), and it shows an artist for whom age
truly was a number, as he hadn't lost his creative and performing
spark.

I
don't know of any other musician who sounds or sounded as vibrant and
energetic at 90 years of age as Chuck does on this record. His guitar
playing and singing are as lively as ever, especially combined with
the latest, state-of-the-art recording technology. Chuck is still
rocking it!

The
album is a family affair, with Chuck's daughter on harmonica and
accompanying/backup vocals and three generations of Berry men on
guitars. Chuck Sr.'s classic style is unmistakable, with Chuck Jr.
displaying more of a jazzy side and Chuck III ripping fiery,
screeching solos. I hope the latter two continue their patriarch's
legacy, at least in terms of guitar playing.